Radiofrequency Ablation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma as First-Line Treatment: Long-term Results and Prognostic Factors in 162 Patients with Cirrhosis

RFA is a safe and effective first-line treatment for early-stage HCC, with a 5-year survival rate of 67.9%. High serum α-fetoprotein level, advanced Child-Pugh class, and presence of portosystemic collateral vessels had a significant negative effect on overall survival.